Lonely with Friends.

This isn't a pity post or a way of extracting more attention from people close with me. I'm just in a interesting mood today that has helped me rediscover something. Have you ever felt like this? Have you ever felt like you were surrounded by people you love and yet at the same time, felt kind of lonely? My wife and I have had this conversation numerous times before and I'm glad we did. I don't know that I would have brought this up with anyone if I didn't think anyone else ever felt this way. I feel weak and foolish when I get like this. I feel kind of like I shouldn't be so selfish and learn to just be content. However, feeling lonely within the proximity of loved ones reminds me of something else entirely today as well. We are created with a deep need to be near our Creator. The reason we are created like this is because He wants to be near us. The longing for relationship here is deep in our souls like a dry and thirsty seed well within the very center of desert. I really believe that there is a level of relational need that no human can meet for another human. I don't think this is an accident or fluke either. I think God has given us a hunger to be near him because He is hungry to be near his people and meet this need. As uncomfortable as moments of loneliness can be, may they be a reminder that the One who created us is constantly pursuing and desiring the company of his beloved children.

4.5 Days and Counting...

This Friday afternoon I'm playing at our local festival in Grand Rapids and I'm debuting material from my concept album, "The Search for the Great Cachalot". I couldn't be more nervous. Now, I play in front of people all the time but it's usually either worship songs on a Sunday morning with a bunch of people singing with me or playing rock music in a club somewhere. The funny thing is, this is different. I'm really putting myself out there. There is no band to hide behind. All of the material is mine alone. My words, my ideas, my insecurities. I am looking forward to it however, even if there are only two people there. (I really do hope that there's more!) Anyway, it's easy to do a lot of things that make it look like you are really being vulnerable and forced to take risks but then you are presented with an opportunity that pulls away the curtain and reveals who you really are. That is if you are willing to step up to the plate. I would love to know where others have been challenged similarly through various opportunities. Thoughts?

P.S. If anyone in the area is interested, I'm playing on the "Outer Fringe" stage at Michigan and Monroe from 3:15 to 4:00 for the Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts.